Throughout the majority of my time in high school, I’ve always said I couldn’t wait for it to end. Along the way I’ve made connections and created bonds with people I couldn’t imagine no longer seeing everyday. So while I am excited to explore the validity of the statement “college is the best years of your life,” this moment is definitely bittersweet. I know that change is necessary for growth and to try to look on the brighter side of things, but I know I will miss a few things about high school while I am curious to see what the future holds.

I asked a few other seniors how they felt about high school ending and the next chapter of their lives, these were a few responses:

“I’m kind of sad that high school is ending because I’m not sure if I’m ready for college. Also, I feel like I didn’t try my best these four years and I want college to be different, so going to college scares me, but it also gives me hope that I’ll be able to do better. I’m excited to go to college also because, you know, it’s a new beginning, and I’ll get to meet new people. It is a different type of environment, and I need a change. Life after high school scares me so much because I’ll be on my own for the most part, and I hate being alone, so I don’t know if I’m ready. But I’m willing to find out.” -D.

“High school ending is a really bittersweet feeling! I’m sad about what I’m leaving behind, but happy for what’s to come. The memories I’ve made with these people are moments I’ll cherish forever. Go Hawks” -A.

“I feel very happy and sad about the end of high school. I’m too anxious for this new chapter, and I’m ready for school to be over so I can focus on just this new beginning. I know I will miss my friends and the bonds I have made with many teachers but other than that school will not be missed.” -B.

As we reflect on the past four years, we all may feel differently about the uncertainty that comes with new beginnings. This isn’t the ending that we all had hoped for, we are grateful for the memories we made, and the final few to come.

To my fellow classmates, I know that we will continue to strive wherever we go and leave a positive impact on the people around us.